Raging in Place

Gen-x aging resources and community

Category: Health & Wellness

  • Tacoma, WA The Unsettling Intersection of Aging, Illness, and Homelessness in Our Own Backyard

    Tacoma, WA The Unsettling Intersection of Aging, Illness, and Homelessness in Our Own Backyard

    A stark and unsettling picture is emerging in Pierce County, Washington, one that hits uncomfortably close to home for a generation watching its own parents age while navigating its own precarious economic realities. The issue of homelessness is rapidly converging with the crises of aging and failing health, creating a burgeoning emergency that demands our attention.

    A recent report from The News Tribune, “Homeless, sick and aging: Pierce County faces worsening crisis in 2025,” lays bare the sobering facts. Service providers on the front lines are sounding a critical alarm: a significant and growing portion of the unhoused population is elderly, disabled, and suffering from chronic health conditions with dangerously few resources to turn to.

    The numbers presented to the Pierce County Council’s Health and Human Services Committee are grim. Jake Nau, the homeless outreach manager for St. Vincent DePaul, reported that at least half of the unhoused individuals he encounters are over 55 or are living with a significant physical or mental disability. This isn’t a transient population chasing services, Nau emphasized. “This population is not chasing benefits across counties and states. They were housed here, and now they are not.”

    This crisis directly reflects the fears of many in Generation X, who are often sandwiched between caring for aging parents and securing their own futures. The article highlights that the normal process of aging is “harmfully accelerated” on the streets, with the average life expectancy for a person experiencing homelessness plummeting to around 50 years old. That’s a two-decade deficit compared to the housed population.

    The data from MultiCare Health System is equally jarring. In the first five months of 2025 alone, 404 people were discharged from just two local hospitals into homelessness. A significant number of them were of an age that should be associated with retirement planning, not street survival. According to the report, 176 were between 50 and 69 years old, and one individual was over 90.

    For many, the pathway to this point is frighteningly familiar. Jan Runbeck, a registered nurse providing healthcare to the homeless, noted that many she meets became unhoused in their 50s and 60s following a job loss or a significant injury, particularly from jobs that lacked benefits. It’s a scenario that underscores a lifetime of work not being enough to prevent a slide into the most desperate of circumstances.

    While the county is making some efforts, such as funding medical respite facilities like the Oasis Inn project, the scale of the problem is immense. These facilities provide a crucial space for healing post-hospitalization, a service that not only offers dignity but, as Runbeck argues, saves taxpayer money by reducing repetitive and costly emergency room visits.

    The reality on the ground in Pierce County is a sobering reflection of systemic vulnerabilities. It’s a poignant reminder that the lines between stability and crisis can be perilously thin, particularly as we age. This isn’t a distant problem; it’s a local crisis that speaks to broader anxieties about healthcare, housing security, and what it means to grow old in an increasingly unforgiving economic landscape.

  • The Future of Aging? There’s a Grant for That.

    The Future of Aging? There’s a Grant for That.

    We’re at a peculiar life stage. We saw the dawn of the internet, and now we navigate the digital world with ease. We have seen enough to be skeptical. Yet, we still hold out hope for a better future. A significant part of that future, whether we like it or not, involves aging.

    The typical story about getting older is one of decline. It’s a narrative of management and reluctantly accepting new limits. But what if we could rewrite that story? A new initiative encourages the next generation of healthcare professionals to do just that.

    A Challenge to Redefine Aging

    A recent press release announced the Dr. John Fortuna Grant. This program challenges healthcare students across the United States. It asks them to “Redefine Aging through Innovation in Longevity and Regenerative Medicine.” This isn’t just about adding more years to life. The grant focuses on enhancing the quality of those years. It pushes students to envision a world where aging is a journey of strength, not decline.

    Why This Matters to Us

    For those of us in Generation X, this is more than an academic exercise. We stand on the front lines of this shifting paradigm. Many of us care for aging parents. At the same time, we confront our own mortality with a reluctant pragmatism. The aches feel more persistent. The recovery times seem longer. Our conversations with peers now include more health concerns.

    The prospect of innovations in longevity is therefore profoundly relevant. These aren’t abstract concepts. They represent a future where we can remain active, engaged, and healthy for longer.

    A Future Beyond Managing Decline

    The grant’s focus on regenerative medicine offers significant hope. This field aims to repair or replace damaged tissues and organs. It suggests we can do more than just manage the effects of aging. We could potentially reverse some of its impacts.

    While we may not be applying for this grant, its existence is a hopeful sign. It shows a shift in the medical community. They are moving toward a more proactive and optimistic approach to aging. The future of healthcare may not just treat illness. It may cultivate long-term wellness and vitality.

    As we navigate midlife, this is welcome news. The next generation of medical innovators is building a better future for us. And as we deal with the realities of getting older, it’s a powerful reminder: People are actively writing the future of how we age right now.

  • Insights from Research on Aging, and the Allen Institute’s Seattle Connection

    Insights from Research on Aging, and the Allen Institute’s Seattle Connection

    The landscape of aging is constantly changing. Scientific advancements offer new ways to maintain vitality. A sponsored story on KING5.com recently shared insights. It showed how cutting-edge brain research helps us understand aging better. This research also leads to better health outcomes. This ongoing exploration is especially important for Generation X. We are increasingly thinking about how our choices affect our minds over time.

    Unlocking the Brain’s Mysteries

    The article stresses the importance of continuous research. This research helps us solve the mysteries of the aging brain. The KING5.com piece is sponsored. Still, it highlights a key part of healthy aging: actively seeking knowledge. It also points to using scientific discoveries to improve our well-being. Understanding the biology behind cognitive decline is crucial. So is understanding cognitive resilience. This knowledge helps us develop effective prevention and treatment plans. Our generation is often self-reliant and practical. Because of this, the focus on science-backed health initiatives really speaks to us.

    Proactive Aging for Generation X

    For Generation X, “aging gracefully” often means aging effectively. This isn’t just about how we look. It’s about keeping our minds sharp and staying independent. Brain research, as hinted at in the KING5.com article, suggests our future brain health isn’t set in stone. We can influence it by learning new things. We can also change our routines based on scientific findings. The article doesn’t give specific lifestyle tips. But it does remind us how vital research is. It shapes how we approach the second half of our lives. It encourages us to be smart about health information. We should look for trustworthy sources. We should also understand how new science can help us make better decisions for our brain health.

    AARP, BECU, the Allen Institute, the UW Memory and Brain Wellness Center are holding an online event to hear more about brain health on June 5th. The event is free to attend but pre-registration is required at aarp.org/caregiverswa. 

  • The Future of Fall Prevention: A Robotic Helping Hand

    The Future of Fall Prevention: A Robotic Helping Hand

    For many in the Generation X demographic, the conversations around aging are becoming less hypothetical and more immediate. We find ourselves increasingly concerned with the well-being of our parents, and perhaps, with a subtle glance in the mirror, our own future needs. A recent development offers a glimpse into a potentially transformative solution for a common and serious concern: falls among seniors.

    Researchers at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, have developed a new robot designed to prevent falls by physically catching individuals as they lose their balance. This isn’t a clunky, intrusive machine, but rather a mobile robot that can detect a fall in progress and, within a mere 0.37 seconds, position itself to provide support, potentially preventing serious injury. The robot, dubbed Mobile Robotic Balance Assistant (MRBA), employs a harness worn by the user, allowing for a gentle yet firm intervention. The study, involving 29 participants, demonstrated the robot’s ability to reduce the force of falls significantly.

    The implications for older adults are substantial. Falls are a leading cause of injury and even death among seniors, often leading to a cascade of health issues, loss of independence, and increased healthcare costs. While this technology is still in its developmental stages and not yet commercially available, the promise of a proactive, immediate intervention against falls is compelling. Imagine the peace of mind this could offer to families, knowing there’s an extra layer of protection for their loved ones living independently.

    For Generation X, this innovation resonates on multiple levels. We are often the primary caregivers for our aging parents, navigating the complexities of their evolving needs while simultaneously managing our own careers and families. The prospect of a device that could enhance the safety and autonomy of our parents without requiring constant human oversight is incredibly appealing. Furthermore, as we approach our own senior years, the thought of having such technological assistance available could alleviate anxieties about maintaining independence and avoiding debilitating injuries.

    While no technology is a panacea, the MRBA represents a significant leap forward in addressing a critical issue in geriatric care. It highlights the potential for robotics to play an increasingly vital role in supporting healthy aging, offering a blend of practical assistance and enhanced safety. As this technology matures, it will be interesting to observe its integration into home environments and its impact on the quality of life for older adults and their families.

    Reference: https://dspace.mit.edu/handle/1721.1/159256

  • Washington’s New Right to Repair for Mobility Equipment

    Washington’s New Right to Repair for Mobility Equipment

    For many, mobility means independence. It ensures access to jobs, education, and healthcare. Yet, people who rely on power wheelchairs and other mobility equipment have faced frustratingly long repair times. These delays, often weeks or months, stemmed from manufacturer restrictions on parts, tools, and documentation. Washington state recently addressed this challenge. On May 19, Governor Bob Ferguson signed Senate Bill 5680, establishing a crucial “right to repair” for mobility equipment.

    This landmark legislation mandates that manufacturers of mobility devices provide access to necessary documentation, parts, embedded software, firmware, and tools for repairs. This change aims to significantly reduce repair delays. Current averages are four to seven weeks. The new law should greatly improve the quality of life for those depending on these devices daily.

    The bill’s passage shows a growing bipartisan consensus on the importance of the “right to repair” movement. This applies not just to consumer electronics but especially to life-sustaining equipment. When a power wheelchair breaks down, it isn’t just an inconvenience. It directly stops a person from living their life fully. The legislation also protects manufacturers from liability for damages caused by independent repair providers, unless the damage is due to design or manufacturing defects. Independent repair providers, in turn, must inform consumers they are not authorized by the original equipment manufacturer. They also must disclose the source of any replacement parts.

    For many Generation X individuals, this legislation is particularly relevant. As people age, the need for mobility assistance can increase. The ability to maintain and repair equipment without excessive delays or costs becomes critical. This law offers significant peace of mind. It also preserves crucial independence, whether for an aging parent, a spouse, or oneself. This bill shows a forward-thinking approach to an aging population’s evolving needs. It recognizes that access to functional equipment is fundamental to continued participation in society.

    This bill, along with a companion “right to repair” bill for consumer electronics and appliances, solidifies Washington’s leadership in consumer protection. It highlights the power of advocacy from groups like Disability Rights Washington and the Here and Now Project, who championed this cause.

  • That Energy Drink Ingredient Might Have a Dark Side

    That Energy Drink Ingredient Might Have a Dark Side

    Many have reached for an energy drink to combat fatigue or meet deadlines. These drinks often contain taurine, a naturally occurring amino acid also found in meat, fish, and eggs, which our bodies produce. Taurine has even been explored for its potential to ease some chemotherapy side effects. However, a recent study from the University of Rochester Medical Center reveals a possible downside, especially for those at risk of or living with leukemia.

    The research, published in Nature, indicates that taurine fuels the growth of leukemia cells. Scientists discovered that leukemia cells in the bone marrow, where these blood cancers start, cannot produce taurine themselves. Instead, they actively absorb it from their surroundings using a specific transporter protein. This taurine uptake then promotes glycolysis. Glycolysis is the process where cells break down glucose for energy, a process that rapidly growing cancer cells heavily rely on.

    In lab models and human leukemia cell samples, researchers found that blocking this taurine “fuel line” slowed cancer progression and improved survival rates. Combining the taurine uptake inhibitor with venetoclax, an existing leukemia drug, showed even more promise.

    Dr. Jeevisha Bajaj, the lead investigator, expressed excitement about these findings. She suggested that “targeting uptake by myeloid leukemia cells may be a possible new avenue for treatment of these aggressive diseases.” While this research is in its early stages, it raises a critical point. Taurine is common in energy drinks and sometimes used as a supplement by cancer patients for chemotherapy side effects. This study suggests caution and the need for further investigation into its use, particularly for individuals with leukemia.

    Implications for Generation X Health

    For those in Generation X, who may be increasingly aware of their health and exploring supplements and dietary choices, this news is a reminder that seemingly harmless substances can have complex bodily effects. While energy drinks might have been a go-to during younger years, this research highlights the importance of staying informed about the potential impacts of common ingredients as we age and face potential health issues. It underscores the need for ongoing research and careful consideration of dietary supplements, especially with specific health conditions.

    As we age, understanding the intricate ways our bodies interact with different compounds becomes more critical. This study on taurine and leukemia marks a significant step in that direction. It urges both the medical community and individuals to consider potential risks alongside perceived benefits.

  • Aging? Yeah, and Our Mental Health Too: A Gen X Take

    Aging? Yeah, and Our Mental Health Too: A Gen X Take

    The Psychology Today article, “The Double Distinction of Aging and Mental Health Problems,” highlights the unique challenges faced when the natural process of aging intersects with mental health concerns. The piece emphasizes that these are not mutually exclusive issues and, in fact, can exacerbate one another. As individuals age, they may experience physical changes, social transitions like retirement or the loss of loved ones, and increased awareness of their own mortality. These factors can contribute to or worsen existing mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and isolation.

    The article points out that mental health issues in older adults are often underdiagnosed and undertreated. This can be due to a variety of factors, including the misconception that feeling down or withdrawn is a normal part of aging, a reluctance to discuss mental health, or a lack of access to appropriate care. Furthermore, the stigma surrounding mental illness can be particularly strong within older generations.

    For those in Generation X, who are now in their late 40s and 50s, these findings carry significant weight. This cohort is often juggling the demands of careers, raising families (including teenagers and young adults), and increasingly, caring for aging parents. These midlife pressures can already be stressors on mental well-being. As this generation moves further into their 50s and beyond, the intersection of these existing pressures with the biological and social changes of aging could create a perfect storm for mental health challenges.

    It is crucial for individuals in this age group to be aware of the potential for mental health issues and to prioritize their psychological well-being. Recognizing the signs of mental health conditions in themselves and their peers, seeking professional help when needed, and fostering supportive social connections are vital. Breaking down the stigma associated with mental health within this generation and encouraging open conversations can lead to earlier intervention and better outcomes. The article serves as a timely reminder that mental health is an integral part of overall health at every stage of life, and aging does not diminish its importance.

  • Long-Term Effects of U.S. Medical Research Effort During World War II

    Long-Term Effects of U.S. Medical Research Effort During World War II

    Wartime Research, Peacetime Gains

    The Second World War spurred significant advancements across numerous sectors. A recent National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) digest highlights the profound and lasting impact of the U.S. medical research effort during that time. The research examines data on mortality rates and medical innovations. It suggests that the intensified focus on medical science during the war years led to substantial long-term health benefits for the U.S. population.

    Declining Mortality and Medical Innovation

    The NBER analysis points to a notable decline in mortality rates. This decline is from diseases heavily targeted by wartime research, such as infectious diseases. This push fostered breakthroughs in treatments and preventative measures. These continued to save lives and improve public health for decades after the war. The digest emphasizes that the scale and urgency of the wartime effort created a unique environment for rapid scientific progress.

    A Generational Perspective

    For Generation X, this historical context offers a valuable perspective. We have benefited from the cumulative effect of these earlier medical advancements throughout our lives. Vaccines became widespread. Antibiotics revolutionized the treatment of infections. Public health initiatives strengthened during and after World War II. All have contributed to the overall health and longevity our generation has experienced.

    The Importance of Sustained Investment

    This historical example underscores the importance of sustained investment in medical research. The long-term payoffs from focused scientific inquiry can be immense and far-reaching, even during crises. As we navigate our own health concerns with aging, understanding the history of medical progress can provide context and hope for future breakthroughs. The lessons learned from the accelerated research during World War II continue to inform how we approach medical challenges today.

    Long-Term Societal Benefits

    The study reminds us that societal investment in science and medicine is crucial. It is not merely an expenditure. It is a key factor in shaping the health and well-being of future generations. The advancements forged in a time of global conflict continue to resonate. They influence the medical landscape that Generation X and subsequent cohorts navigate.

  • Positive Aging in Place Conference Addresses Key Concerns for Tulsa Community

    Positive Aging in Place Conference Addresses Key Concerns for Tulsa Community

    The Tulsa community is set to host a significant event addressing the crucial topic of aging well in one’s own home. The Positive Aging In Place Conference, scheduled for June 4th at OU-Tulsa, aims to equip both professionals and community members with the resources and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of growing older while remaining in their familiar surroundings.

    This free, one-day conference features keynote sessions led by Dr. Frances Wen and Suzy Sharp, promising insightful perspectives on positive aging. Attendees can also choose from a variety of breakout sessions covering essential aspects of aging in place. These sessions include practical guidance on utilizing palliative care, ensuring home safety, navigating estate planning and financial considerations, and understanding advanced healthcare planning. Information will also be provided on programs like PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) and maximizing hospice benefits.

    The conference underscores a growing awareness of the desire for individuals to maintain their independence and live in their own homes as they age. For those in Generation X, this topic resonates on multiple levels. Many are currently supporting their aging parents through these very challenges, while simultaneously beginning to contemplate their own long-term care and living arrangements. Understanding the resources available and the key considerations involved in aging in place is becoming increasingly relevant for this demographic.

    The topics covered, such as estate planning and advanced healthcare directives, are particularly pertinent for Generation X as they plan for their future and the security of their families. Furthermore, the information on palliative care and hospice benefits can be invaluable in navigating difficult conversations and ensuring compassionate care for loved ones.

    With a limited capacity of 100 participants and the provision of 6.5 Continuing Education Units for LCSWs and LPCs, the Positive Aging In Place Conference signals a commitment within the Tulsa community to proactively address the needs of its aging population. It offers a valuable opportunity for learning, networking, and gaining practical insights into a topic that will inevitably impact us all.

  • Trump’s Drug Pricing Order Faces Hurdles Over ‘Pill Penalty’

    Trump’s Drug Pricing Order Faces Hurdles Over ‘Pill Penalty’

    Trump’s Drug Pricing Order Faces Hurdles Over ‘Pill Penalty’

    President Trump’s recent executive order seeks to revise drug pricing laws. This effort faces strong opposition, especially regarding the “pill penalty.” The order aims to fix a disparity in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The IRA lets Medicare negotiate prices for small molecule drugs (pills) nine years after FDA approval. Biologic drugs face negotiation after 13 years.

    Pharmaceutical companies argue this difference, the “pill penalty,” hurts small molecule drug development. Trump’s order suggests a 13-year negotiation delay for these drugs, similar to biologics. It also calls for more transparency in Medicare drug price talks. The goal is to lessen negative effects on drug research.

    However, the executive order does not become law on its own. Congress would likely need to act, which could be difficult politically.

    The article defines the “pill penalty” as the IRA’s different timelines for Medicare price negotiation. This distinction is central to the debate over the executive order.

    For Generation X, many nearing or in their senior years and using Medicare, this issue’s outcome is key. It could change how much their prescriptions cost and if they can get them. The proposed changes might raise drug costs by delaying negotiations. Or, keeping or expanding the IRA rules could make drugs more affordable.